I was invited to be one of the panelist, discussing about Running a WordPress Development Agency at the WordCamp Kuala Lumpur 2017, last November.

Here are some points that I’d like to summarize from that discussion that could be useful, if you’re running a small web agency:

1. Spend Time Perfecting Your Skills. Many people will have a product or talent, but will receive little to no recognition because it isn’t good enough. I suggest spending enough time developing a product, be it a website or invention, that you would buy it.
2. Dont Be Humble. I have a problem with this; I hate “bragging” about myself. But if you think that you are worth it, go for it! When proposing a project to a client, tell them you’re better than the rest, then say why.
3. Cover Different Mediums. Promoting yourself over several different mediums, like in social media, person-person communication, or the internet forums, will help clients recognize that you are in the market.
4. Have GREAT Advertisements. A great advertisement is worth it; they are the deciding factor in whether a client wants to come to you. If you think that you’re worth paying for an advertisement, this is great; a well-done, professional advertisement makes you stand out from the crowd. Which brings me to tip #5.
5. Stand Out. This is the most heard lesson today. By being unique, you are recognized more; by being recognized more, you are sought after more. Going back to Tip #2, tell your client why you’re different, and better.
6. Sometimes, You Make More By Not Making Anything. This means free-work. Volunteering at a place before working there not only shows that your dedication, but also it gives you a chance to display your qualities. This can be translated into selling a product, to; demos and freebies are one of the most surefire ways to gain interest.
7. Conquer Your Fears. I know at first, I was scared to self-promote. But then I would think of my bank balance, and see it with thousands of dollars more. It really helps!
8. Be Assertive. When promoting your services, never stray from your self-assurance. I recommend before selling that you become so confident that any questions you’re asked come straight from knowledge. Know your services back and forth, like the back of your hand.
9. Learn From Your Mistakes. I always like to ask, when I’m turned down, why I was turned down. That way, if they point out any specific fault, it gives you the chance to take that in and learn from it. If you really want to show maturity, tell them that if they tell you, it will give you the chance to improve. Then, leave your contact info, because they might look for you in the future.

There you have it! It was a great opportunity meeting wonderful people at the WordCamp, and I hope for another great one, next year!